China cruise into semi-finals of Thomas and Uber Cups
Lin Dan doesn't even have to play as defending champions thrash Thailand; women drub England
Badminton great Lin Dan did not need to come on court as defending champions China whipped Thailand 3-0 without conceding a game to enter the semi-finals of the Thomas Cup on Thursday.
World No. 2 Chen Long defeated Boonsak Ponsana 21-16, 21-8 in 43 minutes, and after a doubles win, Du Pengyu sealed the tie with a 21-14, 22-20 win over Tanongsak Saensomboonsuk, as China kept on course for a record sixth consecutive title.
Lin, the world and Olympic champion who has been featuring in the third singles for China due to his low ranking of 58th, did not have to play once the tie was decided.
China will next play Japan, which disposed of surprise quarterfinalist France 3-1. French player Brice Leverdez, ranked 31st, defeated fourth-ranked Kenichi Tago 21-14, 15-21, 21-16 but the rest of the matches were taken with ease by Japan.
Malaysia scored a 3-1 victory over Denmark, with world No. 1 Lee Chong Wei rallying hard to win the important opening match against world No. 3 Jan O Jorgensen, 20-22, 21-14, 21-17.